What You Need to Know About the 2025 Vancouver Building By-law (VBBL)

The Vancouver Building By-law (VBBL) 2025 officially came into effect on September 15, 2025, and it now serves as the primary reference for construction safety and compliance within the City of Vancouver.

Key Requirements to Verify on Vancouver Construction Sites:

1. A Qualified Full-Time Construction Safety Officer (CSO)

A full-time CSO is required when a project includes:

• More than two primary dwelling units,
• A complex building, or
• A Coordinating Registered Professional,
• Or when the project falls under Part 3 of the BC Building Code (BCBC).

Exception: A Construction Safety Plan is not required for minor interior alterations within a suite or small additions to a one‑family dwelling. However, the Chief Building Official may still require a plan if the work poses potential hazards to occupants, workers, or the public.

2. Twice-Daily Inspections by the CSO

The CSO must conduct a minimum of two inspections per day. These inspections are a core requirement for maintaining ongoing site safety and regulatory compliance.

3. Posted Inspection Reports

Inspection reports must be posted on-site, typically beside the Construction Safety Plan or site layout. This ensures transparency and accessibility for workers, subcontractors, and inspectors.

4. Monthly Safety Meetings

The CSO must hold monthly safety meetings with:

• The main contractor, and
• Representatives from all subcontractors.

These meetings help ensure alignment, communication, and continuous improvement across all site operations.

5. Required Safety Signage

All posted signage must meet the minimum standards outlined in the City of Vancouver’s bulletin. Proper signage is not optional—it’s a compliance requirement and a critical component of site safety.

What Counts as a “Complex Building”?

The VBBL defines a complex building as one that meets any of the following criteria:

• More than three storeys in height
• A footprint exceeding 600 m²
• Intended for:
  • Public gatherings
  • Residential care
  • Detention
  • High‑hazard industrial activities

These classifications trigger additional safety and administrative requirements, including the need for a full-time CSO.

Download here: Posting of Construction Safety Plan & Building Permit & City of Vancouver’s Bylaw #14343